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Calamari

Calamari, also commonly known as squid, is a popular seafood dish that originates from the Mediterranean region. It is a cephalopod mollusk and serves as a versatile ingredient in various cuisines across the world. Known for its tender and mildly sweet flavor, calamari can be prepared in numerous ways, such as grilled, sautéed, or deep-fried, and is often paired with different sauces and seasonings. For home cooks and consumers, calamari is not only a delicious culinary option but also a nutritious one. Rich in protein, selenium, and vitamin B12, it provides essential nutrients to support overall health. When shopping for calamari, look for fresh, firm, and intact specimens with a faint sea aroma, as these are key indicators of its quality.
#26
IN SEAFOOD
98
CAL / 100G
$0.41
AVG / OZ
calamari
14%
CARBS
9%
FAT
77%
PROTEIN
Calamari FAQ
Cooking with calamari can be exciting yet challenging due to its delicate and versatile nature. One of the most common issues that people face while cooking calamari is overcooking, which can make the squid tough and chewy. To avoid this, calamari should be cooked for a very short time at high heat or for a long time at low heat. Anything in between can lead to a rubbery texture. One of the best ways to get the most out of calamari is by marinating it with your favourite flavours before cooking. This can help to enhance the subtly sweet taste of the calamari and also tenderize it. Another pro-tip when working with calamari is to score the surface in a crisscross pattern. This not only aids in faster cooking but also allows the marinade or sauce to penetrate more deeply. A less known fact about calamari is that its ink can be used to add a unique flavour and colour to dishes like pasta and rice. The ink has a salty and sweet taste with a hint of the sea. Just be sure to use it sparingly as it can be quite powerful!
What's the best way to cook calamari so it's not rubbery?
Do I need to clean calamari before cooking?
How can I make my calamari more flavorful?
Can I grill calamari?
What can I do with calamari ink?
Why is my calamari chewy?
Should I score my calamari before cooking?
Is calamari good for you?
Can calamari be eaten raw?
What are the different ways to cook calamari?
Expiration & Storage Tips
When does calamari expire?
For the best quality, use fresh unopened calamari as soon you buy it, especially if it's stored in the counter at the grocery store. However, if refrigerated, it can last up to 2 days when unopened. If you've already cooked calamari, then it can last in the fridge for about 3 days. Frozen calamari can stay good for 3 to 6 months or even longer, but it shouldn't be thawed and refrozen for safety reasons.
How do you tell if calamari is bad?
Calamari that has spoiled has a few tell-tale signs. It will give off a strong, unpleasant fishy or ammonia-like smell. Also, instead of being firm, the flesh becomes mushy and slimy. It may also have a greenish, brownish, or purplish tinge. If you notice any of these signs, it's a good idea to get rid of the calamari.
Tips for storing calamari to extend shelf life
• Store calamari in a cool refrigerator to slow down the spoilage process, ideally at a temperature below 40°F (4°C). • If you’re not going to use it soon, freeze the calamari. Before freezing, you can wrap it tightly in a plastic wrap or place it in airtight containers or heavy-duty freezer bags to protect against freezer burn and keep it fresh. • Make sure to thaw frozen calamari in the refrigerator instead of leaving it out at room temperature. This will reduce the chances of bacterial growth. • Use a first-in, first-out routine for your seafood. This means you should always use the oldest seafood (the one you bought first) before the newer ones.
EXPIRES WITHIN
6 - 11
DAYS
Substitutes
Health Info
Macros
2g
CARBS
1g
FAT
12g
PROTEIN
Allowed on these diets
LOW FAT
HIGH CALCIUM
KETO
PALEO
WHOLE 30
MEDITERRANEAN
LOW CARB
LACTOSE FREE
GLUTEN FREE
Contains these allergens
FISH
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